Baseline Marker Recovery Game

This cardio-focused drill builds endurance, quick recovery, and footwork discipline by forcing players to touch a marker after every point before restarting play. The continuous movement and recovery simulate match intensity while keeping players engaged in short, competitive rallies. This format works well in both small group practices and larger cardio tennis sessions, providing both conditioning and skill development.

Setup

• Place two markers (cones) 3–4 feet behind the baseline, slightly off to each side
• Two players begin at the baseline in ready position
• Coach/feeder positioned at the opposite side with a basket of balls
• Additional players line up to rotate in

Rules & Objectives

• Coach feeds the ball to one player to start the point
• Players rally and play out the point as normal
• After the point ends, both players must run to their assigned marker behind the baseline
• Once each touches their marker, they return to the center and the coach immediately feeds the next ball
• After 3 points, the next two players in line rotate in
• Repeat until all players cycle through

Repetition

• Adjust marker distance: closer for younger players, farther wide for advanced players
• Play games to 7 or 11, with each rally counting only after players have completed their marker recovery
• Add conditioning: require players to split-step at the marker before returning
• Variation: make markers asymmetric (one farther out) to test lateral explosiveness

Coaching Points

• Builds cardio endurance through repeated sprint-recovery patterns
• Reinforces footwork discipline—players must reset after every rally
• Improves explosiveness and lateral speed
• Keeps players mentally sharp by combining rally play with recovery rules
• Provides a fun, competitive format suitable for groups

Drill Tutorial